Description
The A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Striking Time 145.029 represents the culmination of German watchmaking excellence, combining revolutionary digital time display with sophisticated acoustic complications. This extraordinary timepiece stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mechanical watchmaking while maintaining the highest standards of traditional craftsmanship.
Historical Context
The Zeitwerk collection, first introduced in 2009, marked a significant departure from conventional time display methods. The Striking Time variant, launched subsequently, added an acoustic dimension to the revolutionary digital display concept.
Case Architecture and Construction
Case Specifications
| Material | 18k White Gold (5N composition) |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 44.2mm |
| Height | 13.6mm |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 52.5mm |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters (3 ATM) |
Case Construction Details
- Three-piece case construction with separately machined bezel, case band, and caseback
- Alternating brushed and polished surfaces with hand-finished transitions
- Domed sapphire crystal with nine layers of anti-reflective coating
- Sapphire crystal caseback secured by six individually numbered screws
- Integrated crown guards with geometric faceting
- Sealed crown system with triple gaskets
Dial Architecture and Display System
Dial Components
- Solid silver main dial plate with granular surface treatment
- Applied hour markers in white gold with rhodium plating
- Digital display windows with beveled frames
- Flame-blued steel hands for subsidiary functions
- Power reserve indicator with proprietary calibration
Digital Display Mechanism
The revolutionary digital display system incorporates:
- Three separate jumping number discs (hours and two for minutes)
- Constant-force escapement ensuring precise disc advancement
- Patented remontoir mechanism for energy storage
- Zero-reset system for precise synchronization
- Safety mechanism preventing damage during setting
Movement Technology (Caliber L043.2)
Basic Specifications
| Total Components | 528 individual parts |
|---|---|
| Jewel Count | 78 synthetic rubies |
| Frequency | 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | 36 hours ±15 minutes |
| Movement Diameter | 33.6mm |
| Movement Height | 9.2mm |
Movement Architecture
Key structural elements include:
- German silver three-quarter plate with traditional Glashütte ribbing
- Hand-engraved balance cock with unique pattern
- Four gold chatons secured by thermally blued screws
- Screwed gold collets for jewel bearings
- Double-arm balance bridge for enhanced stability
Technical Innovations
- Patented constant-force escapement with remontoir spring
- Modified Swiss lever escapement with diamond pallets
- Free-sprung balance with six eccentric poising weights
- Breguet overcoil balance spring manufactured in-house
- Silent timing gear governor for striking mechanism
Striking Mechanism Engineering
Component Architecture
The striking system features:
- Dual hammer construction in hardened and polished steel
- Individual gongs manufactured from specially formulated steel alloy
- Patented activation system with zero play
- Independent power source for striking mechanism
- Synchronized triggering system for precise timing
Sound Engineering
Acoustic properties are optimized through:
- Precision-tuned gongs with specific resonance frequencies
- Sound-enhancing case construction with resonance chambers
- Mathematically calculated hammer trajectories
- Variable strike intensity based on power reserve
Finishing and Decoration
Movement Finishing
Every component receives specific finishing techniques:
- Hand-executed anglage on all bridges and plates
- Straight graining on lever arms and springs
- Mirror-polished steel components with black polish
- Circular graining on wheels and pinions
- Perlage on base plates and recessed areas
External Finishing
- Hand-polished case with multiple surface treatments
- Applied dial elements with manual finishing
- Hand-stitched alligator strap with square scales
- Mirror-polished white gold buckle with engraved logo
Authentication and Documentation
Each timepiece includes:
- Individual serial number engraved on movement and case
- Certificate of authenticity with movement specifications
- Detailed technical documentation
- Assembly master’s personal signature
- Original presentation box in hand-finished wood
Service and Maintenance Protocols
Regular Maintenance Requirements
To ensure optimal performance:
- Complete service recommended every 3-5 years
- Annual water resistance testing
- Quarterly timing regulation checks
- Monthly power reserve system verification
Storage Requirements
- Temperature-controlled environment (18-22°C)
- Humidity control (45-55% relative humidity)
- Protection from magnetic fields (>4,800 A/m)
- Regular winding if not using a watch winder
Market Position and Investment Value
The Zeitwerk Striking Time 145.029 maintains its position as:
- A flagship model in A. Lange & Söhne’s high complications collection
- Limited annual production maintaining exclusivity
- Strong secondary market performance
- Highly sought-after by serious collectors
The A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Striking Time 145.029 represents the pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking, combining innovative engineering with traditional craftsmanship. Its unique digital display mechanism, coupled with the sophisticated striking system, places it among the most technically accomplished timepieces in contemporary horology. Each example stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of haute horlogerie.
